The 27-inch iMac is playing hard to get for some customers, which could mean that an updated version of the desktop Mac is on its way.

MacRumors reports that at several Apple stores, some models of iMacs are no longer available for in-store reservation and pick-up, suggesting that Apple has let the supply run out. It follows a rumor last week that Apple is gearing up to introduce a fresh update to the all-in-one desktop. Apple hasn't released a new iMac since October 2009.

There's also speculation that a new set of desktop apps could be arriving soon. AppleInsider reports iLife '11 is coming on Saturday, August 7. The unusually specific date for the rumor comes courtesy of a French Apple blog that has a source pinpointing that day.

Along with a new version of iWeb, iPhoto is rumored to sport improvements to Faces and Places (iPhoto's facial-recognition and geolocation features), and have more social-networking integration. Currently iPhoto allows export directly to third-party sites Facebook and Flickr.

iDVD is rumored to be deleted from the software suite, but the same French Mac blog says there will be a new "mystery" application included in iLife '11. Any ideas what the unnamed iLife app would be? Add your guesses in the comments.

About the author

Erica Ogg is a CNET News reporter who covers Apple, HP, Dell, and other PC makers, as well as the consumer electronics industry. She's also one of the hosts of CNET News' Daily Podcast. In her non-work life, she's a history geek, a loyal Dodgers fan, and a mac-and-cheese connoisseur.
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